Top Mediterranean Itinerary: 7-Day Journey Across Antalya, Fethiye, Mersin & Bodrum

Introduction

Stretching along southern Turkey, the Mediterranean region is famed for its turquoise beaches, rich cuisine, and ancient cities. This 7-day itinerary Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast Itinerary: 7 Days covers Antalya, Mersin, and Muğla provinces, focusing on the most searched, scenic, and historical spots. Each day features a detailed schedule with driving distances and essential landmarks.

Fethiye, Turkey – Middle East, Beach, Ölüdeniz, Asia.

Top Places to Visit Along the Mediterranean Itinerary

Antalya

Hadrian’s Gate
Located in Antalya’s old town, this Roman triumphal arch was built in honor of Emperor Hadrian and serves as a symbolic entrance to Kaleiçi.

Yivli Minaret
A landmark of Antalya, this 13th-century Seljuk structure with its fluted design dominates the city skyline and reflects Islamic architecture.

Hıdırlık Tower
Perched at the edge of the cliffs in Kaleiçi, this ancient Roman tower offers both historical significance and panoramic sea views.

Antalya Museum
One of Turkey’s most important museums, housing artifacts from the Paleolithic to the Ottoman period—perfect for culture lovers.

Konyaaltı Beach
A long stretch of pebble beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing, easily accessible from the city center.

Olympos & Çıralı

Olympos Ruins
These ancient Lycian ruins nestled in lush forest near the beach include Roman baths, temples, and tombs dating back to the 2nd century BC.

Yanartaş (Chimaera)
A natural wonder where flames rise continuously from the ground—an unforgettable sunset hike destination tied to Greek mythology.

Çıralı Beach
A peaceful and protected bay where sea turtles nest; perfect for travelers seeking serenity and nature.

Mersin & Silifke

Kızkalesi
A medieval castle dramatically set on a small island offshore—accessible only by swimming or boat ride, it’s shrouded in legend.

Narlıkuyu
A picturesque cove known for its seafood restaurants and crystal-clear waters, ideal for a relaxing lunch stop.

Cennet-Cehennem Sinkholes
Two massive sinkholes associated with mythology, these natural formations near Silifke are both awe-inspiring and historically rich.

Asthma Cave
Named for its therapeutic air, this cave near Cennet-Cehennem features stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Aya Tekla Underground Church
One of the earliest Christian places of worship, offering insight into the hidden history of early Christianity.

Silifke Castle
Overlooking the Göksu River, this hilltop fortress provides a panoramic view of the region and holds traces of multiple civilizations.

Susanoğlu Beach
A calm and family-friendly stretch of coastline ideal for swimming, located just outside Silifke.

Fethiye & Patara

Ölüdeniz
Famous for its turquoise lagoon and paragliding opportunities, this iconic destination is a highlight of the Fethiye region.

Saklıkent Canyon
A cool and narrow gorge offering water trekking and adventure, especially refreshing on hot summer days.

Patara Ruins
Featuring an ancient Roman theater, parliament building, and colonnaded street—Patara is a hidden gem for history buffs.

Patara Beach
One of Turkey’s longest sandy beaches and a protected area for sea turtles, perfect for a peaceful afternoon.

Bodrum

Bodrum Castle
Built by the Knights of St. John in the 15th century, this well-preserved fortress now hosts the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.

Geographic Overview

The Mediterranean region spans from Muğla in the west to Hatay in the east, embracing the southern coastline of Turkey. Its terrain transitions from the Taurus Mountains down to pristine shores. With a typical Mediterranean climate—hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters—the region is ideal for tourism, agriculture, and fishing.

Local Cuisine Highlights

Antalya Bean Salad (Piyaz): A unique tahini-based salad with white beans and boiled eggs.
Tahini Pumpkin Dessert: Roasted pumpkin topped with tahini and walnuts.
Tantuni: Thinly sliced beef wrapped in lavash, a Mersin street-food favorite.
Shrimp Casserole: A sizzling seafood dish served in clay pots.
Cezerye: A carrot and nut delight typical of Mersin.
Grilled Octopus: A coastal delicacy, especially common in Fethiye and Bodrum.
Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms & Artichokes: Olive oil-based appetizers known for their light and fresh taste.

1 – Kaleiçi & Konyaaltı in Antalya (15 km local transfers)

09:00 – Your journey begins with arrival at Antalya Airport.
09:30 – After arrival, transfer to your hotel in Kaleiçi and check-in.
10:30 – Then, explore the charming streets of Kaleiçi: Hadrian’s Gate, Hidirlik Tower, and Yivli Minaret.
12:00 – Pause to enjoy the scenic views from Mermerli Beach cliffs.
13:00 – Lunch by the sea with freshly grilled fish and traditional appetizers.
14:30 – Next, head to Antalya Museum and discover thousands of years of history.
16:00 – Continue with a drive to Konyaaltı Beach (6 km).
16:30 – Relax during free time for swimming and sunbathing.
19:00 – Take a peaceful sunset walk along the coastline.
20:00 – Enjoy dinner featuring Antalya’s famous bean salad and pumpkin dessert with tahini.
21:30 – End the day with Turkish coffee in a traditional Kaleiçi café.

2 – Olympos & Çıralı (85 km)

07:30 – Start your day with breakfast, then depart for the peaceful village of Çıralı.
09:00 – Visit the ancient ruins of Olympos, including Roman theatres, tombs, and mosaics.
11:00 – Cool off with a swim at Çıralı’s quiet, natural beach.
12:30 – Lunch: Handmade Turkish pancake (gözleme) and cold ayran under the trees.
14:00 – Take a short rest at a local café surrounded by greenery.
16:00 – In the afternoon, hike to the eternal flames of Yanartaş (Chimaera).
18:00 – Watch the sunset while taking stunning photos at the shoreline.
20:00 – Dinner: Enjoy freshly grilled fish seasoned with local herbs.
21:30 – Return to your hotel and relax.

3 – Transfer to Mersin & Kızkalesi (485 km)

06:30 – Depart early in the morning for a long scenic drive along the coast toward Mersin.
12:30 – Take a quick lunch stop near Alanya.
15:30 – Arrive in Kızkalesi and check into your hotel.
16:30 – Head straight to the beach for a refreshing swim and optional canoeing around the offshore castle.
18:00 – Take a coastal walk and enjoy panoramic views of the iconic Maiden’s Castle.
19:30 – Dinner in Narlıkuyu: Try shrimp casserole and local meze plates.
21:00 – Unwind by the sea or enjoy a dessert at a seaside café.

4 – Silifke Region & Ancient Landmarks (45 km)

08:00 – After breakfast, drive to the Silifke region to explore natural and historical wonders.
09:00 – Begin with the Cennet and Cehennem sinkholes—deep, awe-inspiring caves with mythological importance.
10:30 – Visit Asthma Cave and Aya Tekla, one of the earliest Christian sites.
12:30 – Have lunch in central Silifke: enjoy spicy tantuni and sweet cezerye.
14:00 – Head to Silifke Castle and take in the panoramic view of the Göksu River valley.
15:30 – Relax with an afternoon swim at nearby Susanoğlu Beach.
18:00 – Return to Kızkalesi for a final evening by the Mediterranean coast.
20:00 – Dinner: Fried red mullet, salad, and a local white wine pairing.
21:30 – Optional short walk to see Kızkalesi lit up at night.

Tips & Essentials

Apply sunscreen and wear a hat, especially during summer months.
Wear comfortable shoes when visiting ruins and rocky terrain.
Some beaches require walking or boat access—plan accordingly.
A museum pass can save time and money for multiple site visits.
Don’t miss local bazaars for fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Conclusion

This 7-day route offers a rich combination of history, nature, and local flavors. From the ancient alleys of Antalya to the turquoise shores of Fethiye and Bodrum, the Mediterranean is ready to welcome you. Pack your bags, follow this itinerary, and enjoy an unforgettable holiday!

If you’d prefer to explore this route with a guided tour, you can.

NIf you’d like to learn how to make baklava step by step at home, you can.

If you want to explore the most stunning valleys, balloon tours, and historical routes of Cappadocia, you can check out our detailed travel guide here.Kapadokya Gezi Rehberi